Verizon Statement on Federal Communications Commission's Proposed Network Neutrality Rulemaking

Verizon Statement on Federal Communications Commission's Proposed Network
Neutrality Rulemaking

WASHINGTON, Oct. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- The Federal Communications Commission
today approved a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on network neutrality. The
following is a statement by Tom Tauke, Verizon executive vice president of
public affairs, policy and communications:

"The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking announced today appears to be a substantial
improvement from what we understand was in earlier drafts. This is a better
starting point for the discussion of the policies that will govern the
Internet.

"We are nevertheless concerned that the NPRM implies there is a need for
further regulation of the Internet. After listening carefully to comments
from all of the advocates of regulation, one thing remains clear: The
Internet ecosystem is serving consumers very well, and there is no problem
that requires new government regulation.

"As we engage in this process, we remain concerned that the unintended
consequences of regulation could bring substantial harm to consumers and the
ability of the Internet sector to innovate, contribute to economic growth and
productivity, create new jobs, and deliver social benefits to our nation.

"With that said, we appreciate the open process established by the FCC and are
confident that a full airing of the issues will result in better policies. We
are working hard to find common ground with other players in the Internet
industry on common policies that would apply to all concerned, and we look
forward to playing a constructive role in this process."

SOURCE Verizon

David Fish, +1-202-515-2514, david.m.fish@verizon.com